World Navigator, Atlas Ocean Voyages’ First Expedition Ship, Floats Out; Sister-ship World Traveller Lays Keel

Atlas’ All Inclusive All the Way Delivers One of Industry’s Most Inclusive, Luxury Experiences

World Navigator (left) is floated out and World Traveller's (right) keel is laid at West Sea Viana Shipyard.
FORT LAUDERDALE, FLA., Oct. 5, 2020 – With nine months until launch, Atlas Ocean Voyages’ World Navigator was floated out at West Sea Viana Shipyard in Portugal. The ‘float out’ marks the first time World Navigator enters the water and floats of her own accord. Now in wet dock, the small expedition ship is being outfitted with elegant and luxurious amenities and décor. Meanwhile, construction of World Traveller, Atlas’ second expedition ship, is already in progress, and her keel was also laid at West Sea Viana Shipyard. Designed for seasoned and fun-seeking travelers to immerse in active and awe-inspiring experiences in less-trodden, bucket-list destinations, World Navigator and World Traveller will launch in July 2021 and mid-2022, respectively. Guests will enjoy one of the industry’s most-inclusive experiences with the luxe-adventure cruise brand’s signature All Inclusive All the Way. In addition to World Navigator and World Traveller, three additional expedition ships are on order for delivery by the end 2023.

“Our first ship’s float out is a momentous milestone for Atlas Ocean Voyages,” said President Alberto Aliberti. “We are another major step closer to welcoming World Navigator and launching Atlas’ authentic, once-in-a-lifetime adventures in the some of the world’s most extraordinary places. We take care of the details so guests can focus on enjoying Atlas’ luxe-adventure journeys with their family and friends, part of our signature All Inclusive All the Way. These have been very appealing for travelers with a pent-up desire to explore again. They and our valued travel advisor partners have responded very positively since we opened reservations – so much that we are the only cruise brand to have ordered new ships this year.”

Atlas Ocean Voyages’ All Inclusive All the Way makes it one of the most inclusive cruise brands in the industry. Guests enjoy greater peace of mind and seamless adventures, beginning with included complimentary roundtrip air travel from major North American gateways to the remote and captivating destinations where Atlas sails.

A ‘first’ for the industry and an example of how the brand is innovating with the evolving priorities of general travel, Atlas is also including emergency medical evacuation insurance with every booking. Guests can rest assured that they will expeditiously obtain the appropriate attention in case of a medical emergency. The insurance covers emergency medical transportation from the ship to a local treatment center, as well as return transportation to home or a medical facility close to home, as required.

On extended voyages, guests also enjoy MAX SHORE, complimentary three- to five-night, overland immersions that bring guests to the must-see attractions and cultural gems only found inland. These free ‘vacations-within-vacations’ deliver more once-in-a-lifetime experiences, such as hot-air ballooning over Pamukkale’s mineral pools and petrified forest; glamping under the Jordanian stars and catching sunrise over Petra; and even touring the infamous Chernobyl power plant and overnighting in the exclusion zone, with more to be announced. MAX SHORE itineraries are also All Inclusive All the Way, with transportation, meals, beverages, premium lodging, and most of all, access.

Shipboard, experienced, inquisitive and fun-seeing travelers will find community with like-spirited guests as they revel in the ship’s welcoming and lively lounges. With All Inclusive All the Way, guests can be more carefree and enjoy features such as complimentary prepaid gratuities; premium wine and spirits and international craft beers; coffees and smoothies; Wi-Fi; L’Occitane bath amenities; complimentary shore excursions in select ports; Michelin-inspired dining; binoculars onboard; coffee, tea and personalized bar service in every room; butler service in suites; and engaging and knowledgeable service from every staff and crew member.

For her inaugural season, World Navigator will embark on seven- to 24-night itineraries in the Holy Land, Black and Mediterranean Seas, followed by nine- to 13-night itineraries in the Caribbean, South America and on Antarctic expeditions for winter 2021/22. Atlas’ newly constructed, safe, clean and green, small expedition ships foster a refined and convivial ambience and can accommodate up to 196 guests. World Navigator and her sister ships are Polar Category-C and Ice Class-1B certified, with all of the most-modern hygiene and cleanliness measures incorporated into their design.

For more information, please visit www.AtlasOceanVoyages.com and follow Atlas Ocean Voyage on Facebook (www.facebook.com/AtlasOceanVoyages), Twitter (www.twitter.com/atlascruises), and Instagram (www.instagram.com/AtlasOceanVoyages). Travel Advisors can call 1-844-44-ATLAS (1-844-442-8527) to book their clients on an unforgettable luxe-adventure journey.

CARNIVAL CRUISE LINE CANCELS SOME CRUISES FOR NOVEMBER AND DECEMBER

MIAMI, October 1, 2020 – Following the U.S. Centers for Disease Control’s (CDC) decision to extend its no-sail order for cruise operations, Carnival Cruise Line is notifying guests and travel agents that it has cancelled cruises from all U.S. homeports except Miami and Port Canaveral for November and December 2020. While operations from Miami and Port Canaveral in November and December are still not certain, Carnival is focusing its initial return to service from those two homeports, whenever that might occur.

Carnival continues to work on protocols and procedures that would allow for the resumption of cruise operations, with a gradual, phased-in approach, designating Miami and Port Canaveral as the first two homeports for embarkations. Cruises currently scheduled for November and December from those two homeports will remain in place for the time being while Carnival evaluates options. However, the cruise line is providing guests booked on cruises in November and December out of Miami and Port Canaveral the ability to voluntarily cancel their reservation and receive the same offer that all other impacted guests are receiving, which includes a combination future cruise credit and onboard credit, or a full refund.

“As we have said throughout this pause, our return to operations will be gradual and phased in. And while we are not making any presumptions, once cruising is allowed, we will center our initial start-up from the homeports of Miami and Port Canaveral,” said Christine Duffy, president of Carnival Cruise Line. “The health and safety of our guests, crew and communities we serve remain the cornerstone of our plans and decisions. The patience and support of our guests and travel agent partners have been a huge motivation to our team as we have worked through this unprecedented situation and we are dedicated to getting back to operations when the time is right.”

The Travel Corporation Launches How We Tread Right, a 5-Year Sustainability Strategy for a Regenerative Return to Travel

The strategy is comprised of 11 goals developed to address travel’s environmental and community impact, anchored to the United Nations Global Goals

How We Tread Right’s 11 Goals, developed to advance the United Nations Global Goals

Cypress, Calif.– September 24, 2020 – The consequences of COVID-19 have been felt by all sectors and particularly, the travel industry. During this difficult time, The Travel Corporation (TTC) has redoubled its commitment to sustainable and regenerative tourism, alongside its more than 40 brands. Just ahead of World Tourism Day (September 27, 2020), TTC has launched How We Tread Right (HWTR), its new 5-year sustainability strategy that includes 11 goals designed to advance TTC’s efforts to address climate change, overtourism and animal welfare. The strategy outlines initiatives to strengthen efforts that address sustainable food production, responsible consumption, and diversity and inclusion.

A core component of the strategy is the launch of Make Travel Matter (MTM) Experiences, which have been identified using an industry-first, proprietary assessment tool. This tool measures each experience against criteria that take direction from the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). Make Travel Matter (MTM) Experiences allow TTC’s award-winning brands, including Insight Vacations, Trafalgar, Contiki, Luxury Gold and Red Carnation Hotels, to identify experiences by the positive impact they have on destinations and the way in which those experiences directly advance the UN’s SDGs.

Endorsed by the World Travel & Tourism Council (WTTC), the proprietary MTM E-Assessment tool enables TTC teams to identify which UN Global Goal a potential MTM Experience aligns with as an assurance to travelers on the positive impact of the experience. An experience must meet the criteria associated with at least one Global Goal in order to be labelled a Make Travel Matter Experience and can advance up to two Global Goals. The complete set of qualifying criteria is available on TTC’s MTM Experiences webpage. This will drive a critical commitment to integrate at least one Make Travel Matter Experience on 50% of all itineraries by 2025, ensuring that TTC's return to travel is mutually beneficial to both travelers and hosts. TTC’s guided travel brands alone offer in excess of 1,500 unique itineraries worldwide which have laid the foundation for the company to truly integrate these new experiences benefitting people, the planet and wildlife around the world – TreadRight’s three focus pillars.

To launch HWTR, The TreadRight Foundation enlisted its Ambassadors - Céline Cousteau, activist and filmmaker; Sarain Fox, Indigenous storyteller and activist and Ami Vitale, National Geographic photographer - to share how travel has impacted their lives, as travelers look to them to learn how they can make their travels matter. The video is available on TreadRight’s YouTube channel here.

“Our comprehensive How We Tread Right strategy is the progressive commitment to sustainability and the planet that TTC and our travel brands must make right now to achieve our 11 goals and be accountable for our impact,” says Brett Tollman, chief executive of TTC. “Never before has our industry been faced with so many challenges, many of which are directly tied to the heavy environmental footprint on the planet. At TTC, we believe that sustainability is critical to the return of our business post-COVID-19,” Tollman adds.

Among the 11 HWTR goals included in the strategy, one critical step is the company’s commitment to achieving carbon neutrality by 2030 or sooner. TTC intends to drawdown its direct emissions through conservation and technology, investing in clean energy, low-emissions transportation and innovation. Leading the charge is Xigera Safari Lodge, part of the Red Carnation Hotel Collection, which will open in Botswana in December 2020 and run on nearly 100% solar power, while TTC’s guided travel and FIT brands, such as Contiki and Trafalgar, have measured the carbon footprint of their trips and will announce roll out plans later in the year.

In its entirety, HWTR has committed to achieving the following by the close of 2025:

• Goal 1: Achieve carbon neutrality by 2030 or sooner

• Goal 2: Source 50% of our electricity from renewable sources by 2025

• Goal 3: Reduce food waste by 50% across all hotels and ships by 2025

• Goal 4: Increase use of local and organic products in our supply chain by 2025

• Goal 5: Reduce printed brochures by 50% by 2025

• Goal 6: Eliminate as many unnecessary single use plastics from our operations and itineraries by 2022

• Goal 7: Include at least one Make Travel Matter Experience on 50% of all itineraries by 2025

• Goal 8: Achieve a 20% increase of itineraries visiting developing regions by specialist brands by 2025

• Goal 9: Increase employee and market sentiment regarding diversity and inclusion across our brands

• Goal 10: Complete 30,000 volunteer hours by 2025

• Goal 11: Ensure all wildlife experiences across TTC brands adhere to our Animal Welfare Policy by 2021

The full strategy featuring all 11 goals is available at TTC.com/How-We-Tread-Right.

About The Travel Corporation:

The Travel Corporation (TTC) is a highly successful stable, and solvent family-owned and passionately run international group of 40 award-winning brands, celebrating our first 100th Anniversary this year. Our exceptional portfolio of brands spans across 70 countries and offers an extensive selection of international travel and tourism companies, encompassing a variety of guided travel experiences, independent holiday packages, boutique river cruising, luxury hotels and safaris. We are committed to consistently delivering outstanding service, experiences and value to each and every one of our guests and we do so through continuous innovation. Beyond our commitment to provide the world’s leading holiday experiences, TTC reassures travellers in these uncertain times that their future travels are safe with us. The financial strength and future longevity of the business is backed by the transparent exposure of the companies Red Carnation Hotels unencumbered fixed assets in excess of US$300,000,000 as of December 31, 2019. For more information, please visit TTC.com or follow us on Twitter and Instagram (insert regional link) while using our hashtags #TravelWithTTC and #MakeTravelMatter.

About The TreadRight Foundation:

TreadRight is a joint not-for-profit initiative established by The Travel Corporation’s (TTC) family of brands. TreadRight sets the direction on sustainability for 40 award-winning brands, in addition to overseeing our TreadRight Foundation. The organization’s singular mission is to #MakeTravelMatter through brand operations, and by providing support to community-based projects worldwide that safeguard the planet, people and wildlife. To date, the foundation has supported 55+ sustainable tourism projects in 280+ communities worldwide, based on priorities set by the TreadRight Steering Committee. Past project partners include WWF, Conservation International, WildAid and The National Trust in the UK, while current initiatives include Manitobah Mukluks Storyboot School, Wilderness Foundation Africa and Wildlife SOS. TreadRight also works with inspiring ambassadors who have a passion for sustainable travel, to support its voice within the sustainable travel community. These ambassadors include Céline Cousteau (‘Planet’ Ambassador), Sarain Fox (‘People’ Ambassador), Ami Vitale (‘Wildlife’ Ambassador) and Costas Christ. To learn more about past and current work at TreadRight, please visit TreadRight.org and follow TreadRight on Facebook, Instagram, and Twitter using our hashtag #MakeTravelMatter. We will make travel matter – for our planet, for people and for wildlife. We have taken the pledge, now we invite you to join us.

Azamara Announces New Explorations for 2022 and 2023 with More Country-Intensive℠ Itineraries Than Ever Before

Miami, FL (September 2020): Destination-focused cruise line, Azamara, is excited to announce the remainder of itineraries for 2022 as well as 2023 (Q1), featuring over 80 new itineraries, and more than 170 overnights and 300 late night stays. As the brand furthers its commitment to more in-depth exploration by connecting guests to a country’s local life and culture, Azamara will offer more Country-Intensive Voyages between 2022 and 2023 than ever before, allowing guests to experience iconic destinations as well as hidden gems, all within a single country.

“As the leader in Destination Immersion®, we are always enthusiastic about sharing our new deployment, this year it’s even more special as we have the opportunity to announce an extension of our Country-Intensive Voyages,” says Chief Operating Officer, Carol Cabezas. “When we were working on our itineraries for 2022/2023, our goal was to invite new and returning guests to explore places they have never visited before, or better yet, connect our guests to a country they have traveled to before, but adding in ports that are considered hidden gems to allow for a new experience, which our Country-Intensives are designed to offer.”

With over 275 ports of call in more than 70 countries, 26 of the ports will be offered in Greece, with two maiden ports: Syros, and Tinos. Azamara will also add on returning guest favorites including, Greece Country-Intensives, voyages to the Black Sea and Egypt-Israel intensive voyages. Further south, Azamara will continue another guest favorite, South Africa Intensive voyages.

Highlights of some maiden ports include:

Off the beaten path, Syros, Greece: Far less hedonistic than its neighbors, Mykonos and Santorini. Instead, it offers an authentic look at what Greek life is truly like on the Cyclades. Home to fantastic food and beautiful beaches, Syros is a hidden gem that doesn’t necessarily want to be discovered — only further adding to its unmistakable charm.

Poignant Landmarks, Pink Lakes, and Free-Roaming Wildlife in Dakar, Senegal: Enigmatic, electric, and endlessly explorable, Dakar dazzles on the West African coast. Jutting out on the Cape Verde Peninsula, the city is the westernmost point of the African continent, and was an important trading point for European colonial powers.

A wonderland of urban delights and pastoral pursuits in Aberdeen, Scotland: Remote and northerly, Scotland’s third largest city is a surprising gem with distinctive architecture and a cosmopolitan feel. Admire the granite architecture that varies from highly ornamented Victorian to robust, rough-hewn Scottish façade in the heart of quaint Old Aberdeen

For more information on Azamara’s 2022 & 2023 deployment, please visit this link here.

About Azamara:

Azamara is an upmarket cruise line and the leader in Destination Immersion, with three mid-sized ships sailing to all seven continents of the world. The boutique-style ships allow them to reach marquee ports around the world and dock in smaller less-visited hidden gems. Azamara’s commitment to creating immersive experiences for travelers to connect with local cultures, allows guests to travel deeper with longer stays, more overnights, and night touring. Guests can experience a boutique hotel at sea with inclusive amenities such as gratuities, beverages and more.

Swan Hellenic keel laying ceremony confirms ambitious schedule on course New ship to be named SH Minerva in honour of iconic heritage

The keel laying ceremony for the first of Swan Hellenic’s two new ice-class expedition cruise ships took place in Helsinki today. This saw the first 347-ton block of the ship - newly arrived from Klaipeda, where it had been outfitted and painted - being set on the keel over coins to bring good luck in accordance with ancient maritime custom.

Again demonstrating its respect for time-honoured traditions, Swan Hellenic announced during the ceremony that the ship would be christened SH Minerva in honour of the iconic company’s first purpose-built vessel, named after the Roman goddess of creativity and wisdom. Swan Hellenic CEO Andrea Zito declared there could be no more fitting way for the relaunched company to take Swan Hellenic’s pioneering spirit back onto the waves.

The ceremony took place in the presence of Helsinki Shipyard Inc. CEO Carl-Gustasf Rotkirch and Project Manager Jonas Packalén, together with Swan Hellenic CEO Andrea Zito, participating via video link due to the unprecedented circumstances of the COVID-19 pandemic.

The elegant new ship represents the next generation of polar expedition vessels, designed for worldwide cruising with a strong focus on high-latitude areas. SH Minerva will feature a 4,6-megawatt diesel-electric hybrid propulsion system with selective catalytic reduction, 3-megawatt max. battery package and PC5 ice-strengthened hull. At 113 m, the 10,500-ton vessel has been specially designed to explore the most inspiring and inaccessible places on the planet.

Providing spacious 5-star accommodation for 152 guests in 76 spacious cabins and suites, the vast majority with large balconies, SH Minerva will be operated by an onboard team of 120 to provide the highest levels of personal service.

Commenting on the special challenges of these innovative ships, Project Manager Jonas Packalén explained: “New build 516 and her sister NB 517 are designed for extreme weather conditions, from polar areas with quite heavy ice conditions to tropical regions. And they are naturally designed to respect the sensitive ecosystems of the regions where they’re going to sail.”

Carl-Gustaf Rotkirch, CEO of Helsinki Shipyard Inc. remarked: “We are very happy to have been able to invite our workers back, engaging them in this exciting project. Now we can do what we know best - designing and building ships with a great history behind them and an even greater future ahead. These vessels for the iconic Swan Hellenic are inspiring us, and I hope the customer feels that.”

Swan Hellenic CEO Andrea Zito congratulated the assembled team for successfully achieving an ambitious schedule, thanking the Helsinki Shipyard, Robert McFarland, Tillberg Design and VShips teams for their support.

“We’re excited and honoured to take Swan Hellenic into this next chapter and look forward to meeting you on board when we head to Antarctica in November 2021” he concluded. “Join us to see what others don’t!”

About Swan Hellenic [https://swanhellenic.com]

Swan Hellenic was relaunched in July 2020 to proudly continue the spirit of cultural expedition cruising the company had pioneered in the 1950s. Building on its British roots, the new company has a global cultural cruising outlook dedicated to providing guests with the opportunity to ‘see what others don’t’.

Two new 5-star polar PC5 ice-class expedition cruise ships arriving in November 2021 and April 2022 will each accommodate 152 guests in 76 spacious cabins and suites, the majority with large balconies.

Dedicated to guests with a passion for adventure and cultural exploration, the company’s meticulously planned itineraries explore the wild landscapes, wildlife, peoples and unique cultures of the world’s less travelled regions.

Its ships feature elegant Scandi-design interiors, extensive outdoor spaces and dedicated expedition facilities. The crew includes an expedition team comprising expert guides, speakers and lecturers, and numbering 120 almost equals the number of guests, reflecting the high levels of attentive but unfussy service provided.

About Helsinki Shipyard Inc.

Helsinki Shipyard Inc. celebrated its 1st anniversary in May 2020, but shipyard operations date back 155 years to when Helsingfors Skeppsdocka was authorized to open a shipyard in Hietalahti on the 4th of March 1865. The shipyard is renowned as a pioneer in Finnish shipbuilding, a substantial employer and part of the history and landscape of the City of Helsinki.

Mardi Gras Grand Central Atrium: Form Meets Function Aboard Carnival Cruise Line’s Most Innovative Ship

Line’s Newest Ship Set to Debut from Port Canaveral in February 2021

MIAMI, September 23, 2020 - Atriums have been an important part of cruise ship design for decades but leave it to Carnival Cruise Line to break the mold with Grand Central, a transformational three-deck-high space that is one of six themed zones on Mardi Gras, set to debut in February.

A unique twist on the traditional atrium, Grand Central spans Decks 6, 7 and 8 with massive 3,000-square-foot glass panels built into the starboard side of the ship providing guests with impressive views of the ocean and ports of call as they relax in comfortable seating or stroll throughout the space.

According to Glenn Aprile, Carnival’s director of new build product development and part of the design team that developed the groundbreaking venue, the idea was to create a space that was as functional as it was eye-catching, while providing guests with that “take your breath away” moment when they first board the vessel.

“Building an atrium into the side of a cruise ship is no easy task and it was a total team effort between our new build management team, engineers, designers, and hotel and entertainment teams to create a space that is as beautiful as it is functional,” Aprile said.

During the day, Grand Central serves as a relaxing spot for guests to enjoy a coffee, drink or light fare, people watch, listen to live music, or partake in trivia contests and other leisurely pursuits. At night, Grand Central transforms into an intimate and immersive venue with a rotation of spectacular, soon-to-be-revealed experiences created just for Mardi Gras. Talented performers will interact with 16 individually controlled six- by 14-foot LED screens displaying video and special effects, as well as lasers and aerial feats to create a truly unforgettable entertainment experience.

Aprile noted that “with a ship as innovative as Mardi Gras we wanted to create a multi-functional dining and entertainment space that guests can enjoy day and night, while at the same time providing an intuitive way to get around the ship and creating a dramatic centerpiece that is worthy of our most innovative ship. Grand Central provides all that and more. We are extremely pleased with the results thus far.”

Overlooking Grand Central is the multi-level Grand View Bar which like its name implies offers guests a chance to enjoy floor-to-ceiling sea views as they sip custom-cocktails and other libations, amidst awe-inspiring design touches like a virtual waterfall on translucent panels. There’s also the Center Stage Bar on the main level. Both venues will feature specialty cocktails inspired by the theme of that evening’s entertainment.

Steps away is Java Blue, which in addition to serving coffees, cappuccinos and lattes like other Carnival ships, offers a menu of fresh bakery items, wraps, salads and other light fare throughout the day. The Cherry on Top sweets shop is also nearby for those who want to enjoy a decadent treat, as are the retail shops and casino, providing a variety of fun options for guests to enjoy.

Connecting all of these spaces are a series of spacious and airy promenades and bridges that serve as convenient thoroughfares to other areas of the ship while allowing guests to see all the other happenings on board, adding to the excitement.

Noted Aprile, “We put the engineers and designers to the test here and our teams have taken everything we’ve learned about shipbuilding and interior design to create a stunning, comfortable and functional environment that truly sets Grand Central apart from other shipboard venues. With its transformation from daytime relaxation to nighttime entertainment, Grand Central is unlike anything that’s ever been done on a cruise ship before and our guests are going to love it.”

The first North American cruise ship powered by Liquefied Natural Gas (LNG), Mardi Gras is set to debut from Port Canaveral, Fla., Feb. 6, 2021, operating week-long itineraries from the Space Coast.
For additional information and reservations, contact any travel agent, call 1-800-CARNIVAL or visit carnival.com.

Atlas Ocean Voyages First and Only Cruise Brand to Include Emergency Medical Evacuation and Return-to-home Insurance

FORT LAUDERDALE, FLA., Sept. 23, 2020 – A first for the cruise industry, Atlas Ocean Voyages today announced that the luxury-expedition cruise brand will include emergency evacuation and return-to-home insurance for all guests, in keeping with its All Inclusive All the Way experience. Seasoned, fun-seeking and like-spirited travelers can travel with greater peace of mind on future luxury adventures aboard World Navigator, Atlas’ new, safe and small expedition ship, launching in July 2021. The insurance covers emergency medical transportation from the ship to a local treatment center, as well as return transportation to home or a medical facility close to home, as required.

“Because safety and the health of our guests is our top priority, we are proud to be the first cruise brand to include emergency medical evacuation and return-to-home insurance as part of every booking,” said Alberto Aliberti, President of Atlas Ocean Voyages. “With this first-ever included insurance coverage, our guests can enjoy peace of mind when sailing our captivating destinations and know that we take care of every detail, as part of our All Inclusive All the Way experience.”

Atlas Ocean Voyages is an all-inclusive, luxury cruise brand defined by simple and refined elegance and will deliver authentic, once-in-a-lifetime adventures in the world’s most extraordinary and remote destinations aboard World Navigator, a newly constructed, safe, clean and green, small expedition ship. World Navigator will embark on her inaugural 2021 year, sailing seven- to 24-night itineraries in the Holy Land, Black and Mediterranean Seas in the summer, followed by nine- to 13-night itineraries in the Caribbean, South America and Antarctica in winter 2021/22.

Experienced, fun-seeking and like-spirited discerning travelers will find community aboard Atlas Ocean Voyages’ all-inclusive luxury expedition ships and revel in its welcoming and lively venues to share their day’s exploits. All Atlas Ocean Voyages journeys include emergency medical evacuation insurance; complimentary round-trip air travel from major U.S. and Canada gateways; prepaid gratuities; alcoholic and non-alcoholic beverages; Wi-Fi; L’Occitane bath amenities; free shore excursions in select ports; international gourmet dining; and onboard binoculars, coffee and tea service, and butler service in suites.

Safety is at the core of Atlas Ocean Voyages’ Polar Category-C and Ice Class-1B, expedition ships, and all of the most-modern hygiene and cleanliness measures are being incorporated into their design. World Navigator’s construction in Portugal is on schedule and the line’s first ship will launch in mid-2021, with sister-ships World Traveller, World Seeker, World Adventurer and World Discoverer to follow before the end 2023.

Atlas Ocean Voyages is also committed to preserving the breathtaking locales and waters that its ships visit for future generations to enjoy, and is among the first to employ the latest conservation and sustainability technologies, including a hybrid power management and propulsion system that maximizes fuel efficiency and consumes as low as one-fifth the fuel compared to conventional cruise ship systems. Additionally, World Navigator and her sister ships utilize underwater, forward-looking sonar to confidently navigate coastal, harbor and icy polar waters, and feature an alternate hydrojet propulsion system, which helps the ship quietly cruise up to five knots without disturbing marine wildlife for incomparable up-close encounters.

For more information, please visit www.AtlasOceanVoyages.com and follow Atlas Ocean Voyage on Facebook (www.facebook.com/AtlasOceanVoyages), Twitter (www.twitter.com/atlascruises), and Instagram (www.instagram.com/AtlasOceanVoyages). Travel Advisors can call 1-844-44-ATLAS (1-844-442-8527) to book their clients on an unforgettable luxe-adventure journey.

Oceania Cruises’ Labor Day Upgrade Sale Results in Record-setting Bookings

Miami, FL, September 21, 2020 – Oceania Cruises, the world’s leading culinary- and destination-focused cruise line announced that its Labor Day upgrade sale proved to be the most successful holiday promotion in the company’s history.

The company attributed the success of the sale, with almost half of the new reservations coming from new-to-brand guests, to a combination of an exceptional value proposition and strong demand for a cruise product that features immersive destination-rich itineraries, culinary experiences that rival the finest ashore, and the highest levels of personalized service. Oceania Club members, the line’s repeat guests, comprised slightly more than half of the new reservations with less than five percent of reservations in total utilizing future cruise credits from cancelled voyages.

The volume of new reservations validated the company’s recent commitment to an enriched and improved eco-system of sales tools and online reservations capabilities for travel partners and the additional investment in digital outreach to consumers and travel advisors.

“The success of our recent Labor Day upgrade sale underscores the pent-up demand from our loyal repeat guests and incredible appetite from new first-time guests alike,” stated Bob Binder, President and CEO of Oceania Cruises. “We are especially encouraged by increased interest in small-ship luxury travel experiences from aspirational travelers and the continued support of our travel advisor partners.”

With the strong demand for voyages in 2021 and the first half of 2022, the line will be launching its summer 2022 season of itineraries to Europe, Alaska, Bermuda, and Canada-New England in November, its 2023 Around the World voyage in January, and the balance of winter 2022-23 itineraries in February.  

For additional information on Oceania Cruises’ small-ship luxury product, exquisitely crafted cuisine, and expertly curated travel experiences, visit OceaniaCruises.com, call 855-OCEANIA, or speak with a professional travel advisor.

About Oceania Cruises

Oceania Cruises is the world’s leading culinary- and destination-focused cruise line. The line’s six small, luxurious ships carry only 684 or 1,250 guests featuring the finest cuisine at sea and destination-rich itineraries that span the globe. Expertly curated travel experiences aboard the designer-inspired, small ships call on more than 450 marquee and boutique ports across Europe, Alaska, Asia, Africa, Australia, New Zealand, New England-Canada, Bermuda, the Caribbean, the Panama Canal, Tahiti and the South Pacific in addition to the epic 180-day Around the World Voyages. The brand has two 1,200-guest Allura-class ships on order.

New Exclusive Max Shore Itineraries Offer Explorers and Travelers Choice of Two Immersive Adventures at the Crossroads of Europe and Asia

FORT LAUDERDALE, FLA., Sept. 21, 2020 – Due to the popularity of its innovative and unique new all-inclusive MAX SHORE experiences, Atlas Ocean Voyages today unveiled two new luxe-adventure itineraries, which feature included, immersive and complimentary “vacations-within-vacations.” Discerning and experienced travelers can choose World Navigator’s two new 24-night MAX SHORE itineraries, departing August 4, 2021, from Odessa, Ukraine, to the Black, Aegean and Eastern Mediterranean Seas’ smallest, authentic and enchanting destinations. Guests will call at 19 ports in seven countries, and choose one of two complimentary three-night, inland expeditions, mid-voyage, into the heart of the Anatolian peninsula, the historic crossroads of Europe and Asia. In keeping with Atlas’ All Inclusive All the Way style, all guests enjoy included air and land transportation, hotels, meals and beverages are also included on MAX SHORE voyages aboard World Navigator, the line’s newly constructed and small, expedition ship, launching in July 2021.

“The response to our initial MAX SHORE itineraries has been incredible – with one selling out within weeks,” said Alberto Aliberti, President of Atlas Ocean Voyages. “These MAX SHORE itineraries are perfect for travelers seeking an all-inclusive, luxury experience to explore remote archeological sites, unique landscapes and authentic experiences of the Black Sea and Turkey. What makes MAX SHORE innovative is that guests have two luxury vacations in one, combining small-ship, luxury voyages with included and complimentary adventures into the heart of a destination – in this case, the historic crossroads of Europe and Asia.”

Travelers can choose between two fascinating MAX SHORE itineraries: Magical Cappadocia – Russia to Israel or Hidden Histories & The Pamukkale Hot Springs. Each MAX SHORE begins on the ninth day, when World Navigator arrives in Istanbul, Turkey. On these MAX SHORE experiences, guests have the enviable opportunity to take to the skies in a hot-air balloon for a picturesque and awe-inspiring ride over Geröme or Pamukkale, often seen in social media. The Cappadocia MAX SHORE focuses on the beauty of the Turkish countryside, while the Pamukkale MAX SHORE will highlight lesser-known antiquities and the Salt Springs. Guests then rejoin World Navigator at Kepez, Turkey. Alternatively, MAX SHORE guests can choose to remain aboard World Navigator and enjoy complimentary local Istanbul shore excursions for three days.

Guests on these MAX SHORE adventures also will call at Novorossiysk, Russia; Batumi, Georgia; Paphos, Cyprus; and the Turkish ports of Sinop, Amasra, Bozcaada, Dikili, Ephesus (Kusadasi), Patmos, Bodrum, Marmaris, Fethiye, and Kekova Island and Demre. An overnight in Sochi will provide guests additional opportunities for excursions in Russia, while overnights in Masada (Ashdod) and Jerusalem (Haifa), Israel, will also provide guests time to visit Holy Land sites; join in vibrant nightlife; and enjoy some shopping.

On Magical Cappadocia – Russia to Israel, guests enjoy the first day visiting Istanbul’s marquee sites and attractions, capped with a whirling dervish dinner show. A quick flight, the next morning, will bring guests into Kayseri, the gateway to Cappadocia, where they will explore this fascinating, semi-arid geological region. Here, guests will marvel at large, cone-shaped rock formations known as “fairy chimneys,” into which early inhabitants sculpted elaborate cave houses, underground churches and cathedrals. Guests will also hike the stunning gorge of Ihlara Valley; hot-air balloon over the UNESCO World Heritage Site of Göreme National Park; and even stay in a luxury hotel carved into the mountainside.

On Hidden Histories & The Pamukkale Hot Springs, guests trace the routes and ruins of conquerors and ancient civilizations. Featured on this MAX SHORE adventure is the UNESCO World Heritage Site of Hierapolis, an ancient Roman spa city with a well-preserved theater, a necropolis with sarcophagi that stretch for 1.25 miles, and a pool in which visitors can swim among submerged, fallen columns. Guests also have the opportunity to board a hot-air balloon for a birds-eye view of the ancient city and adjacent mineral forests and petrified. Additionally, guests will visit the charming, modern city of Isparta, nicknamed the City of Roses, known for their rose products, as well as their characteristic colorful woven rugs.

Seasoned, inquisitive, fun-seeking and like-spirited travelers will find community with Atlas Ocean Voyages, an all-inclusive, luxury cruise brand, defined by simple and refined elegance, which will deliver authentic, once-in-a-lifetime adventures in the world’s most extraordinary and remote destinations aboard the newly constructed, safe, clean and green, small expedition ship, World Navigator. Launching in July 2021, World Navigator offers 98 luxe suites and staterooms, all with an ocean view and most with a private balcony, and will sail seven- to 24-night itineraries in the Holy Land, Black and Mediterranean Seas in the summer 2021, followed by nine- to 13-night itineraries in the Caribbean, South America and Antarctica in winter 2021/22.

Experienced, fun-seeking and like-spirited discerning travelers will find community with Atlas Ocean Voyages and all journeys include complimentary round-trip air travel from major U.S. and Canada gateways; prepaid gratuities; alcoholic and non-alcoholic beverages; Wi-Fi; L’Occitane bath amenities; a free shore excursion in select ports on every itinerary; international gourmet dining; coffee and tea service; and onboard binoculars and butler service in suites.

Safety is at the core of Atlas Ocean Voyages’ Polar Category-C and Ice Class-1B certified expedition ships, and all of the most-modern hygiene and cleanliness measures are being incorporated into their design. World Navigator’s construction in Portugal is on schedule, and sister-ships World Traveller, World Seeker, World Adventurer and World Discoverer will join the fleet before the end 2023.

Atlas Ocean Voyages is also committed to preserving the breathtaking locales and waters that its ships visit for future generations to enjoy, and is among the first to employ the latest conservation and sustainability technologies, including a hybrid power management and propulsion system that maximizes fuel efficiency and consumes as low as one-fifth the fuel compared to conventional cruise ship systems. Additionally, World Navigator and her sister ships utilize underwater, forward-looking sonar to confidently navigate coastal, harbor and icy polar waters, and feature an alternate hydro jet propulsion system, which helps the ship quietly cruise up to five knots without disturbing marine wildlife for incomparable up-close encounters.

For more information, please visit www.AtlasOceanVoyages.com and follow Atlas Ocean Voyage on Facebook (www.facebook.com/AtlasOceanVoyages), Twitter (www.twitter.com/atlascruises), and Instagram (www.instagram.com/AtlasOceanVoyages). Travel Advisors can call 1-844-44-ATLAS (1-844-442-8527) to book their clients on an unforgettable luxe-adventure journey.

Experts Recommend Heightened Protocols for the Healthy Return of Sailing

Healthy Sail Panel recommends 74 detailed steps to safeguard the health of guests, crew and communities

MIAMI, Sept. 21, 2020 – New recommendations from a panel of globally recognized medical and scientific experts say that by relentlessly focusing on prevention and other measures – including the testing of guests and crew members – public health risks associated with the pandemic can be mitigated in a cruise ship environment.

The Healthy Sail Panel submitted its recommendations today to the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), in response to a CDC request for public comment that will be used to inform future public health guidance and preventative measures relating to travel on cruise ships. The Panel was formed in June by Royal Caribbean Group (NYSE: RCL) and Norwegian Cruise Line Holdings Ltd. (NYSE: NCLH).

The Panel comprises globally recognized experts in medical practice and research, public health, infectious diseases, biosecurity, hospitality and maritime operations that have applied the best available public health, science and engineering insights to their recommendations.

The Healthy Sail Panel’s 65-plus-page report includes 74 detailed best practices to protect the public health and safety of guests, crew and the communities where cruise ships call. Recommendations include testing, the use of face coverings, and enhanced sanitation procedures on ships and in terminals. The Panel is chaired by Governor Mike Leavitt, former U.S. Secretary of Health and Human Services, and Dr. Scott Gottlieb, former commissioner of the U.S. Food and Drug Administration.

“The Healthy Sail Panel spent the last four months studying how to better protect the health and safety of guests and crew aboard cruise ships,” said Dr. Gottlieb. “Taken as a comprehensive approach, we believe the Panel’s robust public health recommendations will help inform strategies for a safe resumption of sailing.”

Gov. Leavitt said: “This Panel undertook an ambitious, cross-disciplinary, public health examination to develop standards and guidelines that create the highest level of safety in the complex environment of a cruise ship. We studied the industry’s experiences combating the pandemic – and we then incorporated the many lessons learned and advances made by medicine and science over the past six months. The Panel’s recommendations are grounded in the best scientific and medical information available and are intended to meaningfully mitigate public health risks to those who sail.”

“We understand our responsibility to act aggressively to protect the health and safety of our guests and crew, as well as the communities where we sail, and we asked the Panel to help us learn how to best live up to that responsibility,” said Richard D. Fain, chairman and CEO of Royal Caribbean Group. “We were inspired by the depth of the Panel’s work and their determination to help us establish the strongest protocols in the travel industry.”

“The Healthy Sail Panel’s recommendations are robust and comprehensive, and they reflect the intense focus the panelists brought to their work,” said Frank Del Rio, president and CEO of Norwegian Cruise Line Holdings Ltd. “We know that both authorities around the globe and consumers expect cruise lines to provide the safest, healthiest vacations we can, and this work demonstrates our commitment to doing just that.”

Fain and Del Rio said each company will use the Panel’s recommendations to inform the development of new, detailed operating protocols, which will be submitted to the CDC and other authorities around the globe for review and approval– an important milestone in the process of resuming sailing around the world. The Panel’s work is open sourced for others to incorporate in their protocols as well; Governor Leavitt and Dr. Gottlieb expressed appreciation that authorities and other cruise companies had already engaged in the Panel’s work as observers.

The Healthy Sail Panel identified five areas of focus every cruise operator should address to improve health and safety for guests and crew, and reduce the risk of infection and spread of COVID-19 on cruise ships:

• Testing, Screening and Exposure Reduction

• Sanitation and Ventilation

• Response, Contingency Planning and Execution

• Destination and Excursion Planning

• Mitigating Risks for Crew Members

In each category, the Healthy Sail Panel created practical and actionable recommendations to address specific safety concerns. Among the recommendations are key strategies such as:

• Taking aggressive measures to prevent SARS-CoV-2 from entering a ship through robust education, screening and testing of both crew and guests prior to embarkation

• Reducing transmission via air management strategies and enhanced sanitation practices

• Implementing detailed plans to address positive infection on board, including contingencies for onboard treatment, isolation and rapid evacuation and repatriation

• Closely controlling shore excursions

• Enhanced protection for crew members

The full Healthy Sail Panel report can be found here: Royal Caribbean Group or Norwegian Cruise Line Holdings Ltd.